Combine water add cinnamon stick in a medium size saucepan. Bring to a gentel boil

Lower heat add in the oats, stirring frequently so that they don’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

  Once oats are softened and have absorbed most of the water, add in the milk and stir to combine well.  Allow atole to return to a boil and then lower the heat once again so that it can begin to thicken. 

Once at the desired thickness add sugar to taste.  As a guide, the atole should be thinner than oatmeal and you should be able to pour it into mugs without trouble.

Remove cinnamon sticks. Serve immediately with the Mexican bread or pastry of your choice